Gideon

One significant character in the Book of Mormon never served as a political or religious leader. We have no record of him preaching a sermon, performing a miracle, or receiving revelation. He was an enemy of the wicked king Noah (Mosiah 19:4). He served as “captain” under King Limhi (Mosiah 20:17). He called himself Limhi’s “servant” (Mosiah 22:4). Mormon called him “an instrument in the hands of God” (Alma 1:8). What do we know about Gideon, and what can we learn from his example?

• We first see him chasing King Noah up the tower in Shilom, a tower which ironically was built to protect Noah from danger by providing a view of his own land and the land of his enemies. (See Mosiah 11:12-13.) Gideon fights with the king and is about to kill him, but spares his life when the king sees the Lamanite army coming to invade their land. (See Mosiah 19:4-8.)
• The king abandons his people and takes many men with him. Those who remain behind negotiate a treaty with the Lamanites. Under the direction of one of Noah’s sons, Limhi, Gideon sends men into the wilderness in search of those who followed King Noah. (See Mosiah 19:18-24.)
• When twenty-four young Lamanite women are kidnapped and the Lamanite king blames Limhi’s people, Gideon persuades Limhi not to search them. “Lay not this thing to their charge,” he says (Mosiah 20:17.) He explains that the crime had most likely been committed by the priests of King Noah, who were fugitives, hiding in the wilderness. His sensible words not only persuade Limhi but also pacify the Lamanite king and by extension the Lamanite army. (See Mosiah 20:19-26.)
• When a search party arrives from Zarahemla, King Limhi and the leader of the party, Ammon, try to find a way to free Limhi’s people from bondage. Gideon comes forward with a plan which is ultimately successful. He proposes the plan with humble confidence: “O king, if thou hast not found me to be an unprofitable servant, or if thou hast hitherto listened to my words in any degree, and they have been of service to thee, even so I desire that thou wouldst listen to my words at this time, and I will be thy servant and deliver this people out of bondage” (Mosiah 22:4).
• Years later, as an elderly man serving as a teacher in the church, Gideon encounters a popular teacher named Nehor, who has become rich by teaching false principles. Gideon “[admonishes] him with the words of God,” and Nehor responds with violence, drawing his sword and killing Gideon. For this crime, he is executed. (Alma 1:7-15).

Here are some principles I have learned from Gideon:

1. You don’t have to be in a position of authority to be a leader.
2. Speak up when you have a good idea or when something isn’t right.
3. Give people the benefit of the doubt. Be slow to blame others.
4. Defend the truth, and defend freedom.

Today, I will strive to follow Gideon’s example of courage and integrity. I will remember that I can be an instrument in the hands of God by speaking up, giving good advice, and defending the truth.